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I Tried the New Milk Hydro Grip Gel Concealer: First Impressions

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I Tried the New Milk Hydro Grip Gel Concealer: First Impressions

I mean, it’s subtle and natural-looking.

This will be quick. Milk Makeup just launched the Hydro Grip Gel Concealer, and I bought it the second I spotted it at Sephora yesterday. Why? Because I had very high hopes for the face tint last year. I picked it up immediately. Sadly, it wasn’t my favorite.

This concealer, though, is a lane shift.

At the time of writing, Sephora (US) has over 300 reviews listed. Only five are verified purchases. Of those five, two are five-star, one is three-star, and one is one-star. (And yes, I noticed the math too.) Here’s mine.

New Milk concealer hydro gel grip review.
It’s good!

For context, I paid €31 in Spain. It’s listed at $29 in the U.S. Let’s go.

My makeup routine is minimal. Tinted moisturizer or SPF with a tint. Concealer most days. Occasionally bronzer. That’s it. Concealer, however, is the category I tend to experiment with the most. Early impressions below.

Milk Hydro Gel Grip Concealer in open tube.
twist to push up

What Is the Milk Hydro Grip Gel Concealer?

Milk Makeup describes the Hydro Grip Gel Concealer as a gel-to-cream concealer with light but buildable coverage. It’s designed to deliver a natural-looking finish and promises up to 12 hours of wear. It’s also positioned as travel-friendly.

Which makes me laugh and roll my eyes ever so slightly. Tell me which concealer isn’t travel friendly. I’ll wait.

Yes, the stick is small. That’s a neutral observation. But it’s also consistent with Milk’s decision, a few years back, to repackage much of the line into smaller components. Evidently, this concealer follows that same playbook.

image courtesy of Sephora

Shade Range

As shown above, the Hydro Grip Gel Concealer comes in 25 shades across multiple undertones. I tested several shades at Sephora here in Spain and can confirm the range feels thoughtfully done.

As someone who struggles with brands that lean aggressively warm, this was genuinely refreshing. The undertones translate well in person and in marketing visuals, which matters. I’d feel comfortable buying this online without swatching first.

I went with 4.5described as light with neutral-to-cool undertones. No regrets.

Milk Hydro Gel concealer 4.5 shade out the box.
I’d have chosen 4.5 based on online photos and I would have been happy.

Application & Wear

Honestly, 10/10. I’m impressed.

The Milk Hydro Grip Gel Concealer reminds me of a firmer, swivel-stick version of NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer. It’s less wet in feel and finish, if that makes sense. Actually, it sits somewhere between that and the Jones Road Pencil. I use the Neutralizer in Light Peachy Pink of the latter, for reference. This Milk concealer lands right in the middle of those two for me.

What I really loved is how easy this is to use as an under-eye concealer and for spot concealing. I swiped the stick directly under my eyes and patted it in with my fingers. Then I dabbed my fingertip into the concealer and gently tapped it onto other areas where I wanted coverage. No brush. No sponge. No learning curve.

All things considered, it really couldn’t be any more user-friendly.

Milk hydro gel concealer swatch on skin.
creamy and not dry, this photo is kinda not great, emphasis on kinda

Effortless and foolproof are the two words that kept coming to mind.

Since I always use an eye cream, my under-eye area is already well prepped. I also live in a relatively warm climate, so dryness isn’t something I deal with daily. The Milk Hydro Grip Gel Concealer did not crease on me over eight hours of wear, including under the eyes. I have no trouble believing it could comfortably reach the advertised twelve hours.

Milk Hydro Gel concealer swatch shade 4.5

Should You Try It?

If you’re a makeup minimalist who likes natural-looking coverage with an easy finish, this is very much worth trying. The texture is excellent. The experience couldn’t be easier. And the results look polished without looking done. Basically, a keeper.

At any rate, this one earned a spot in my tightly edited makeup rotation.

$31 (3 g / 0.1 oz) at milkmakeup.com, sephora.com or ulta.com

image courtesy of Milk Makeup

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience with the product.

How to style corset tops and latex if you’re in your “Wuthering Heights” era

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How to style corset tops and latex if you’re in your “Wuthering Heights” era

Even though ‘Wuthering Heights’ hasn’t reached British cinemas yet (it’s opening on Friday, 13th February), Emerald Fennell’s take on the Brontë literary classic has already created a massive buzz. Partially thanks to the masterful press tour that has followed Margot Robbie’s method dressing transformation into a sexy goth, but also due to the looseness of Fennell’s adaptation of the novel. The filmmaker and her team took classic elements of Victorian Gothic style, usually associated with the story, and embellished them with Georgian, Elizabethan, and even contemporary elements. The costume design, imagined by Oscar-winning Jacqueline Durran, definitely fits into the idea of imagination and creativity that some purists might find offensive. But when the film director explained that the film is in fact a “fever dream” homage to her personal interpretation of the novel she first read as a teenager, the extreme exuberance suddenly made sense.

Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures

Following this approach of clueless creativity, the film’s costumes are a mash-up of different eras and geographical influences, executed perfectly for the TikTok generation, who are ready to transform themselves into their own version of Margot Robbie’s Cathy. The hero characters and their wardrobes are filled with Easter eggs that are eye-catching and referential to contemporary designers like Mugler and Alexander McQueen, though Durran insists she didn’t want any of these elements shown explicitly. It’s the kind of total world-building that makes the film an immersive experience, one you might want to incorporate in your everyday life.

Image may contain Christina Hodson Person Clothing Dress Fashion Formal Wear Gown Wedding Wedding Gown and Adult

©Warner Bros/Courtesy Everett Collection

How the ‘Friendship Shelf’ Theory Can Help You Identify Toxic Friends

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How the ‘Friendship Shelf’ Theory Can Help You Identify Toxic Friends

My friend said that dialing into this approach allowed her to view friendship as ever-evolving, rather than fixed or rigid. I used to see friendship as an all-in or all-out affair; you were either a ride-or-die friend who had to give me everything, or you were nothing to me. The friendship shelf theory has helped me to understand that’s not a realistic—or healthy—way of looking at friends. You can have all types of successful friendships, you just have to adjust your expectations and what you’re willing to give in return based on individual relationships.

Other perks of the friendship shelf theory

Another benefit is that you stop overlooking toxicity and bad behavior, health and wellness coach Meghan Mitchell, M.Div, NBC-HWC, lead course instructor, Headspace Training Institute coach manager, tells SELF: “It becomes easier to recognize when a relationship constantly drains you, crosses boundaries, or leaves you feeling diminished.”

Critics may argue this tool could lead to a tendency to shut people off too quickly. It may, however, result in the opposite. For some, this mentality “offers a gentle structure for understanding relational dynamics without needing dramatic cutoffs or confrontations,” explains Mitchell. I have never believed friendships are disposable or interchangeable. In fact, sometimes I’ve held on too tightly and fought too hard when I shouldn’t have. This theory allows me to view my friendships through a healthier lens where I can step back and, when needed, let go. This frees me up to prioritize both myself and the friends who are reciprocal in their time, effort, and energy.

It’s therefore key to implement the friendship shelf theory in the right way. “This works best when it’s used as a self-awareness tool, not a value judgment,” says Mitchell. “It isn’t about ranking people by importance or worth. It’s about recognizing that different relationships carry different emotional and energetic realities. Used gently, this framework helps you align your expectations with what each relationship can realistically offer. That alignment actually creates more compassion because you stop expecting people to show up in ways they’re not able to, and you stop overextending yourself in return.”

Inolex Delivers Future-Ready Conditioning with ProCondition 22

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Inolex Delivers Future-Ready Conditioning with ProCondition 22

Now formulators can create quat-free hair care and skin care products.

PHILADELPHIA (February 10, 2026) – There’s a better way to condition hair and moisturize skin. ProCondition 22 (INCI: Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine) from Inolex is a replacement for quaternary ammonium compounds (“quats”) such as Behentrimonium Chloride (BTAC), Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC) and Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine (SAPDMA). ProCondition 22 enables formulators to create quat-free products for skin and hair.

Readily biodegradable and non-irritating to skin and eyes, ProCondition 22 creates lamellar gel networks for conditioning, emulsification, and skin moisturization. It provides multibenefit technology with a non-permanent cationic charge. Lamellar liquid crystals create flexible, protective layers that mimic the natural lamellar structure of skin and hair. These crystals provide a soft, powdery, non-greasy feel on skin and hair. In hair care formulas, they also provide weightless conditioning.

ProCondition 22 restores damaged hair by smoothing lifted cuticles on hair fibers. The hair shaft is sealed and friction between hair strands is reduced. Smooth, unbroken cuticles improve hair appearance and feel. In tests on Chinese hair, European brown hair and multiethnic curly (3A) hair, ProCondition 22 has comparable wet combability to BTAC in a natural conditioning formula. It provides frizz control and gives hair a smooth and overall healthy appearance.

Recommended use levels include shampoos (0.5%), rinse-off conditioners (1.0–5.0%) and leave-on products (0.5–3.0%).

In skin care formulas, ProCondition 22 provides immediate moisture replenishment at 15 minutes and clinically proven moisturization that lasts 24 hours. Recommended use levels in skin care emulsions range from 0.2–5.0%, and 0.5% in cleansers and body washes.

ProCondition 22 is 83% USDA Certified Biobased Content, non-palm derived, with a Natural Origin Index of 0.80. It is readily biodegradable, Halal certified, Kosher compliant, vegan and cruelty-free, and China IECIC listed.

BTAC, CTAC and SAPDMA are under pressure because they can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They may be harmful to aquatic life and contribute to water pollution. All three have the potential for buildup on hair and skin, leading to dullness or residue. In formulations, these materials can destabilize certain cosmetic formulations, affecting product efficacy.

About Inolex

Inolex, Philadelphia, is a fiercely independent, innovation-driven ingredient design firm serving the health, beauty and wellness industries. Inolex designs and manufactures ingredients that deliver safety, sustainability and exceptional performance.
www.inolex.com

How to Apply Foundation Stick for a Seamless, Natural Finish

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How to Apply Foundation Stick for a Seamless, Natural Finish

A foundation stick is the quickest way to even tone and add targeted coverage—especially when you want a fresh, skin-like glow. This step-by-step foundation stick tutorial tells you exactly how to apply, blend, and build coverage without streaks or cakiness. We’ll use bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick as our skin-first, mineral-powered base for a luminous, barely-there finish. You’ll learn smart skin prep, how to warm and blend a stick foundation seamlessly, and which tool—brush or fingers—delivers your preferred result. Follow along for a flawless, believable base in minutes.

@bareminerals Meet the new Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick. A weightless skin tint stick that boosts barrier strength, hydrates, and leaves an undeniable glow. Discover your shade and shop now exclusively at @QVC, Inc! Available 1.26 @Ulta Beauty, @Macy’s ♬ original sound – bareMinerals

Prepare Your Skin for Foundation Stick Application

Smooth, hydrated skin is the secret to even glide and long wear. Start by cleansing and toning, then apply moisturizer and let it sink in for 5–10 minutes. This gives hydration time to absorb so your skin tint doesn’t cling to dry patches. Next, apply primer based on skin type: choose a hydrating primer for dry skin to boost slip or a mattifying primer for oily skin to temper shine and extend wear, a technique makeup pros consistently recommend for smoother, more even application.

Pro tip: Light, regular exfoliation keeps texture smooth, allowing cream sticks to blend effortlessly.

Choose the Right Shade and Formula for Your Skin

For the most natural match, swatch bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick along your jawline and slightly onto your neck, then check in daylight. Undertones are the subtle hues beneath the surface of your skin: warm (gold/peach), cool (pink/rose), or neutral (a balance of both). Match the depth of your skin first, then fine-tune undertone so it disappears into your neck.

  • Oily or acne-prone skin: look for oil-controlling, mineral-powered options with a natural finish.
  • Dry or mature skin: hydrating skin tints and radiant finishes enhance luminosity and minimize the look of texture.

Quick guide: foundation formats at a glance

Feature

Stick Foundation

Liquid Foundation

Powder Foundation

Coverage/Finish

Buildable, precise; natural to luminous

Sheer to full; varies by formula

medium to full; natural matte

Best For

On-the-go, targeted coverage, contour

All skin types; blendable options

Normal to oily; quick oil control

Convenience

Swipe, blend, done

Requires tool/time

Fast; minimal tools

For a deeper dive, see our clean-beauty guide to formats and finishes (foundation types explained) (foundation stick vs liquid vs powder).

Warm Up Your Foundation Stick Before Applying

If your stick feels firm—especially in cooler climates—soften it first. Gently swipe the bullet on the back of your hand to warm it; the slight heat helps the formula melt into skin, preventing drag and patchiness. Warming simply means using body heat to make the texture more pliable so you can blend the foundation stick seamlessly.

Select the Best Tool: Brush, Sponge, or Fingers

The tool you choose shapes the finish as much as the formula.

Tool

Why you’ll love it

Best for

Dense synthetic brush

Buffs to an airbrushed look; builds coverage gradually; synthetic bristles don’t over-absorb creams

Light, buildable coverage; polished finish

Clean fingers

Speedy, intuitive blending; body heat melts the formula for the sheerest application

Sheer, natural fresh skin; quick on-the-go

Makeup educators note that synthetic brushes excel with cream/mineral textures; fingertip warmth also helps creams melt for a natural blend.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Apply Foundation in Controlled Amounts

Less is more. Draw short lines on the center of your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Start with a sheer layer; you can always build where needed. Over-applying is the fastest route to cakey texture.

Step 2: Blend with Fingers or a Brush

Use gentle sweeping motions with your brush or fingertips to blend the product seamlessly into the skin. Work in small sections, blending immediately after application to ensure an even, natural-looking finish and prevent the product from settling unevenly.

Step 3: Build Coverage Gradually Where Needed

Once your first layer is blended, add a touch more only on areas that need it—blemishes, redness, or discoloration—then blend to fuse seamlessly. Reach for concealer sparingly instead of layering foundation everywhere.

Step 4: Extend Application to Jawline, Neck, and Hairline

For a professional, undetectable finish, soften edges down the jawline and onto the neck, and lightly diffuse into the hairline so there are no visible lines. Always check your results in natural daylight to confirm the match.

Tips to Prevent Streakiness and Cakiness

  • Work in thin, even layers; pause a few seconds between passes so product can settle before adding more.
  • Blend immediately with a brush or fingertips to avoid streaks and lift marks.
  • Set only where you need it (usually the T-zone) with a light dusting of translucent powder; lock everything in with a fine mist of setting spray for longevity.
  • Keep tools clean. Residue on brushes can cause streaks and buildup.

How to Achieve a Seamless, Natural Finish

To blend the foundation stick seamlessly, blend the product into the skin. Clean fingertips can add that final touch of warmth to melt edges for a skin-tint glow. Well-prepped, moisturized skin makes blending noticeably easier and more even, as pro artists consistently emphasize.

Setting Your Foundation Stick for Longevity

Focus on targeted setting to keep the finish fresh. Using a soft, fluffy brush, lightly dust translucent mineral powder on oil-prone areas like the T-zone to absorb shine and lock your base. Setting powder is a featherweight, transparent powder that grips makeup and reduces transfer. Finish with a setting spray to help your skin tint withstand weather and activity without dulling its glow.

Versatility of Foundation Stick: Concealer, Contour, and Highlight

Maximize your stick for a minimalist routine:

  • Concealer: Tap a small amount of on redness or under eyes, then stipple to blend.
  • Contour: Use a shade 1–2 tones deeper under cheekbones, along the jawline, and sides of the nose; blend until shadow looks natural.
  • Highlight: Use a shade 1 tone lighter on the center of the forehead, bridge of the nose, tops of cheekbones, and Cupid’s bow.

Blend contour and highlight with the same tool you used for foundation to keep transitions soft and seamless.

Ready to try it? Meet your on-the-go glow: the mineral-powered, hydrating Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prep my skin before applying foundation stick?

Cleanse, moisturize, and apply a primer suited to your skin type—hydrating for dry skin or mattifying for oily—then wait a few minutes so everything sets before makeup.

What is the best way to avoid streaks when using a foundation stick?

Apply thin layers and blend immediately with fingerstips or the Smoothing Face Brush in a sweeping motion.

Which blending tool is most effective for foundation sticks?

A dense synthetic brush builds fuller coverage. Fingers are great for quick, natural-looking touch-ups.

How can I prevent my foundation stick from looking cakey?

Use minimal product, build only where needed, press to blend, and set just the T-zone with a light veil of translucent powder.

How should foundation stick application differ by skin type?

Dry skin benefits from extra hydration and minimal powder; oily skin wears best over a mattifying primer with targeted setting; combination skin can concentrate coverage in the center of the face and customize from there.

Cardi B and Friends Join Bad Bunny for an Epic Super Bowl Performance

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Cardi B and Friends Join Bad Bunny for an Epic Super Bowl Performance

The 2026 Super Bowl halftime show just gave us the crossover event we didn’t know we needed but definitely deserved. Bad Bunny transformed the stadium into a massive Puerto Rican street party, and he didn’t come alone. While the world was busy guessing who would join him on stage, the “I Like It” queen herself, Cardi Bmade a surprise appearance that had everyone on their feet.

Instead of just a standard guest verse, Cardi B was spotted bringing that signature New York energy to the stage during the “La Casita” segment of the show. Dressed in a stunning tiered Zimmermann set, she looked like she was having the time of her life dancing alongside Karol G outside the famous pink house. It was a beautiful full circle moment for fans who have loved their chemistry since their 2018 hit collaboration.

Screenshot 2026 02 09 At 112226 AM

A Star Studded Celebration

But the party didn’t stop with Bardi. The stage was absolutely packed with icons, making it one of the most celebrity heavy halftime shows in history. We saw:

  • Lady Gaga delivering a soulful salsa rendition of her hit song Die With a Smile.
  • Ricky Martin bringing that legendary energy with a verse from LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii.
  • Pedro Pascal and Jessica Alba showing off their moves and representing for the culture.
  • Young Miko and Karol G adding even more star power to the reggaeton beats.

Bad Bunny has always been a force when it comes to honoring his roots, and this performance was no different. He turned the biggest stage in the world into a space for unity and love. By including Cardi B and so many other Latinx icons, he showed that the music is about more than just the charts; it is about community.

Screenshot 2026 02 09 At 112146 AM
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Screenshot 2026 02 09 At 112350 AM
Photo Credit: Getty Images

Whether she was boogieing by the casita or just soaking in the vibes, Cardi B reminded us that she is exactly who she thinks she is: a superstar who always shows up for her friends and her culture. This was easily one of the most fun and relatable moments of the entire night, and we will be rewatching those dance clips for weeks!

Luxury Skincare Without the 12‑Step Routine Tips for Natural Beauty

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Luxury Skincare Without the 12‑Step Routine Tips for Natural Beauty

I’m always drawn to skincare brands that understand one simple truth: luxury doesn’t have to be complicated. When I tested Skön, I wasn’t looking for another multi‑step routine or a shelf full of products. Instead, I wanted glow, comfort, and results — without the overwhelm.

In this review, I’ll walk you through my honest experience with the Skön trio — the Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser, the Collagen Marine Moisturizing Cream , and the 24K GOLDEN EYE PATCH — and explain why this brand feels like effortless luxury made for real women.

What Makes Skön Different?

The biggest thing that sets Skön apart is its philosophy. This is a brand built around the idea that women should have the tools they need to care for themselves, feel confident in their own skin, and embrace their inner strength. Skön also focuses on fewer, well‑formulated products that give immediate satisfaction and visible comfort.

Luxury, here, isn’t about excess. Rather, it’s about how the products make you feel — confident, relaxed, and taken care of. Moreover, Skön positions itself as accessible luxury, meaning every woman can experience that spa‑like feeling without complicated routines or intimidating formulas.

The trio instantly gave me that sense of refinement and simplicity. As a result, my skincare routine felt lighter, more intentional, and far more enjoyable.

Brand Philosophy: Luxury for Every Woman

Skön’s message is clear: beauty should be accessible to everyone. The brand focuses on natural, non‑irritating ingredients while still delivering a premium experience. In contrast to many natural skincare brands that sacrifice texture or scent, Skön manages to feel indulgent without being overwhelming.

Additionally, the brand emphasizes comfort and ease. You’re not meant to layer endlessly or wait forever between steps. Instead, you cleanse, moisturize, and enjoy the process — simple, effective, and satisfying.

My Skin Type & Overall Experience

I have combination skin, which means products need to balance hydration without causing oiliness or congestion. Thankfully, the Skön trio worked beautifully for my skin type. However, based on texture and performance, I truly believe these products can suit all skin types.

From the very first use, the experience felt cohesive. Each product flowed naturally into the next, and together they created a routine that felt both calming and results‑driven.

Beautiful Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser Review

Skön creamy facial cleanser review

The Beautiful Hyaluronic Acid Facial Cleanser was a pleasant surprise. The texture is creamy, rich, and comforting, yet it lathers quite well once water is added. Unlike many creamy cleansers, it rinses off easily and doesn’t leave any residue behind.

After cleansing, my skin felt soft, clean, and hydrated — not tight, dry, or stripped. This is especially impressive, as many cleansers that clean effectively tend to compromise hydration. Moreover, my skin felt calm, which tells me the formula is gentle and well‑balanced.

Packaging‑wise, the tube is practical and easy to use. It dispenses just the right amount of product, making it hygienic and travel‑friendly.

What I loved:

  • *Creamy texture that lathers well
  • *Rinses clean without residue
  • *Leaves skin hydrated and comfortable
  • *Easy‑to‑use tube packaging

Beautiful Collagen Marine Moisturizing Cream Review

Collagen Marine Moisturizing Cream

At first touch, the Skön moisturizer feels thick and rich in the jar. However, once applied to the skin, it transforms beautifully. It glides effortlessly, spreads evenly, and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy or sticky feeling behind.

Despite its richness, my skin never looked oily or shiny. Instead, it appeared smooth, well‑hydrated, and balanced. Additionally, there was no strange or overpowering scent — something that can often be an issue with natural moisturizers.

My only note here is packaging. While the formula itself is excellent, I would love to see this moisturizer in an air‑tight pump. This would improve hygiene and help preserve the integrity of the ingredients over time.

Beautiful moisturizer texture

What stood out:

  • *Rich yet fast‑absorbing texture
  • *No oiliness, stickiness, or shine
  • *Leaves skin smooth and hydrated
  • *No unpleasant natural scent

Skön 24K GOLDEN EYE PATCH Review: The Star Product

24K GOLDEN EYE PATCH Skön skincare review

If there’s one product that truly defines the Skön experience, it’s the Skön’s eye patches. This is where skincare turns into a ritual.

Using them feels like stepping into a mini spa moment — imagine soft music, a scented candle, and a few quiet minutes just for yourself. Instantly, the routine feels elevated, indulgent, and deeply relaxing.

Beyond the experience, the results are immediate. My under‑eye area looked refreshed, energized, and well‑rested. Consequently, my entire face appeared more awake and ready for the day.

Skön eye patches spa-like skincare experience

These eye patches don’t just treat the skin — they transform your mood. For me, they became the moment I look forward to the most.

Why they’re the hero:

  • *Immediate visible refresh
  • *Spa‑like, luxurious experience
  • *Makes skincare feel special
  • *Helps me feel relaxed and energized

Final Verdict: Is Skön Worth It?

Skön is for women who crave luxury without complexity. If you’re tired of long routines, endless steps, and products that promise everything but deliver little, this brand offers a refreshing alternative.

You get effective cleansing, deep hydration, and a self‑care moment — all without overthinking your routine. Moreover, the immediate results and sensory experience make skincare feel joyful again.

If you want glow without the 12‑step routine, Skön is absolutely worth trying.

Who I Recommend Skön For

  1. Women who want simple yet luxurious skincare
  2. Anyone overwhelmed by long routines
  3. All skin types, including combination skin
  4. Those who value immediate comfort and visible results
  5. Anyone who wants skincare to feel like self‑care

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Skön suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. The formulas feel gentle and non‑irritating, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Does the moisturizer work for oily or combination skin?

Absolutely. Despite its rich texture, it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave skin oily or shiny.

Are the eye patches worth it?

Yes. They deliver immediate results and elevate your entire routine into a spa‑like experience.

This review reflects my personal experience and honest opinion after testing the Skön skincare products.

Our Favorite Gourmand Perfumes Prove That Sweet and Sophisticated Go Hand-in-Hand

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Our Favorite Gourmand Perfumes Prove That Sweet and Sophisticated Go Hand-in-Hand

Do you ever smell desserts you want to bottle up and spritz on the daily? Same—and luckily for us, the best gourmand perfumes last a lot longer than our favorite confections. What’s in store? We’re talking dashes of vanilla balanced with dark rum, coffee accords blended with frothy milk, and even peony that contrasts praline. In other words, our favorite gourmand perfumes offer a nuanced take on the hyper-sweet scents we were obsessed with growing up.

As with every olfactory family, no two gourmands are the same. Even perfumes that are centered around vanilla don’t necessarily use the same type of vanilla (or the same amount!), so one could smell like a Middle School fever dream, while the other evokes a good mouth in bed at The Ritz. To each their own sweet treat.

Our Top Gourmand Perfumes

We’ve tested hundreds of gourmand perfumes that carry scrumptious notes and ingredient combinations, but only a handful are mainstay-worthy. So, if you’re in the market for a scent that’s mouthwateringly delish, keep scrolling.

Best Creamy: Dedcool Mochi Milk Eau de Parfum

Dedcool

Mochi Milk Eau de Parfum

Why we love it: Building on the virality of Dedcool’s original, skin-like Milk Eau de Parfum, Mochi Milk (a 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner) reimagines gourmand—that is to say, it’s not the type of overwhelmingly sweet gourmand that smacks you in the face. Airy marshmallow and sweetened rice milk give it a whipped, cloud-like softness, while a flash of peach nectar adds brightness without tipping into syrupy territory. Grounded by the franchise’s subtly warm, musky base, Mochi Milk reads less sugar rush and more slow indulgence—softly sweet, nuanced, and irresistibly wearable.

“I’ve always said I’m not a fan of gourmand fragrances because they’re much too sugary and cloying for my taste. But I am a fan of Dedcool, and its latest scent has made a liar out of me. Mochi Milk Fragrance is a very mature take on the classically sweet scent family—and now, one of my new favorite perfumes.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

  • Notes: marshmallow, vanilla bean, sweet rice milk
  • Available sizes: 0.5 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Juicy: Brown Girl Jane Carousel Eau de Parfum

Brown Girl Jane Carousel Eau de Parfum opaque bottle of perfume on light gray background

Brown Girl Jane

Carousel Eau de Parfum

Why we love it: Brown Girl Jane’s Carousel opens with the snap of caramelized apple, glossed with sugar and brightened by sour blackcurrant. The sweetness feels deliberate rather than overly heavy, folding into a floral heart of lily of the valley, coral rose, and orange blossom. As it settles, creamy sandalwood, warm amber, and a whisper of cherry leather melt into cloud-like musk. The result is a fragrance that feels decadent but elegant, like silk threaded with spice.

Should Chloe Kim Really Compete in the Olympics With a Shoulder Injury?

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Should Chloe Kim Really Compete in the Olympics With a Shoulder Injury?

Welcome to your go-to guide to the 2026 Winter Olympics. We’re tracking everything—from real-life heated rivalries (yes, they exist) to under-the-radar sports and surprise standouts—so you can catch up on all of our coverage in one place.

American snowboarding phenom Chloe Kim is one of the top athletes to watch in the 2026 Winter Games, which kicked off last week in northern Italy. On Wednesday, when Kim competes in the women’s halfpipe—the event she won gold in at the last two Olympic Winter Games—her trip down the mountain this time around will be a little different. Kim will be wearing a shoulder brace after dislocating the joint during training last month.

“I hate that I have to make this video, but I just felt that it was necessary,” Kim said in an Instagram video on January 8, announcing the injury. She explained that while training in Switzerland, she “took the silliest fall,” which caused her shoulder to dislocate (meaning, the top of the upper arm bone popped out of the shoulder socket). Five days later, Kim posted an update on Instagram, sharing in a new video that she got an MRI. The results, she said, revealed that she tore her labrum, the cartilage that lines the socket of the shoulder joint.

Because of the injury, Kim said she would have to take a break from snowboarding. But, she added, she “will be good to go for the Olympics.” Her first event will be the qualifying round of the women’s halfpipe on February 11. The halfpipe final is February 12.

To better understand Kim’s injury—and how it might impact her upcoming performance—we tapped Kevin Stone, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and a former physician for the US Ski Team.

So what exactly happened to Kim’s shoulder?

When Kim fell, she landed on her face with her arms up over her head. (Scope footage of the fall here, about 20 seconds into the video.)

That impact drove the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone) out of the shoulder socket. In other words, her shoulder dislocated. And that dislocation tore the labrum, which is the tissue that surrounds the socket and attaches it to the bone. This type of injury, Dr. Stone tells SELF, is “very common.”

Most often, people tear their labrums when the humerus fully or partially comes out of the socket. But this injury can also happen from general wear and tear as a person ages.

How are torn labrums usually diagnosed and treated?

The labrum helps keep the humerus in place, so when people dislocate their shoulder, they automatically tear or damage the labrum too, Dr. Stone says. Shoulder dislocation is diagnosed by taking a patient’s history and doing a physical exam, Dr. Stone says—but usually it’s pretty obvious just by looking at it.

8 Best Korean Sunscreens With Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formulas

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8 Best Korean Sunscreens With Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formulas

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Korean sunscreens different from Western sunscreens?

One of the key differences between Western sunscreens and Korean sunscreens is their role in our perception of skin care, as Zion Ko Lamm, MD, a board-certified internal medicine doctor based in Charlotte, North Carolina, points out. Korean sunscreens are part of a skin-care lifestyle, defending against a broader range of long-term effects of the sun and promoting general skin health. On the other hand, Western sunscreens are formulated with necessity in mind, beginning and ending with sun protection.

Another difference is that no matter how much zinc oxide they contain, Korean mineral sunscreens are transparent on all skin tones, free of the telltale white cast that we often experience with non-Korean sunscreens. Plus, both chemical and mineral Korean sunscreens feature ingredients found in your favorite serums and moisturizers, like Gotu kolaallantoin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. So when you apply Korean sunscreen to your face, you protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays and work in a layer of hydrating, brightening, and smoothing benefits.

Are Korean sunscreens better than Western sunscreens?

Depends on who you ask, but many would say yes. Why? “It’s not that South Korea has something specifically unique that allows them to create better sunscreens,” Toronto-based cosmetic chemist Stephen Ko previously told Allure. “They just have access to more sunscreen ingredients to work with.”

Because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies sunscreen as a drug, its chemicals and components must undergo lengthy, formal drug approval processes, which results in limitations to the ingredients in Western formulas. In fact, “there hasn’t been a new [chemical or mineral] approved for use in sunscreens in the U.S. since 1999,” says Ko. This also allows Korean brands to incorporate SPF and skin care innovations into their formulas more swiftly, allowing for more state-of-the-art, sophisticated formulations (active ingredients include Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, and Uvinul T 150).

In short, the U.S. is “terribly behind the rest of the world in approving sunscreens that are superior to those we have,” Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Antonio, Texas, previously told Allure. Even Congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez agrees. If you’re passionate about sunscreens like we are, she encourages people to contact their congressperson (especially if they sit on the Energy and Commerce Committee) and call upon them to “break through some of the regulatory barriers at the FDA” and “fund public research so that we can all enjoy the filters that develop out of the scientific process.”

How should I choose a Korean sunscreen?

A lot of this depends on your personal preferences, just like any sunscreen produced in the US, Europe, Asia, etc. But if you look at Korean sunscreen packaging, you’ll notice “PA” next to the SPF grades. While SPF measures the degree of UVB light protection, PA (Protection Grade of UVA) is all about UVA light and your protection from developing pigmentation, says Dr. Ko Lamm. She equates PA+++ to SPF 30 and recommends seeking out sunscreens with a minimum of each. “PA is based on the PPD test or the persistent pigmentation darkening test. It measures the multiple increases of UVA a person can theoretically be exposed to without tanning or darkening of the skin,” Dr. Ko Lamm adds. “The PA system ranges from PA+ to PA++++; the maximum rating means it has a PPD value of 16.” This means that while wearing PA++++ sunscreen, your skin can withstand 16 times more UVA radiation than it would without the sunscreen. So, until you exceed that hypothetical 16x UVA level, you won’t start to tan or burn.

Meet the experts

  • Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based at the Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics based in San Antonio, Texas
  • Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
  • Stephen Ko, a cosmetic chemist based in Toronto
  • Zion Ko Lamm, MD, a board-certified internal medicine doctor based in Charlotte, North Carolina

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best Korean sunscreens, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients, efficacy, product wear, and benefits. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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